Chip Kelly changes mind, leaves Oregon for Eagles

After all the rumors and guesswork, Chip Kelly eventually changed his verbal commitment.

The Philadelphia Eagles announced Wednesday that they have hired Kelly as their next head coach to replace Andy Reid. Kelly was as responsible as anyone for the building of Oregon's college football powerhouse. He brought in the spread offense scheme that dominated so many teams, including Washington, which has lost to Oregon nine consecutive times.

"Chip Kelly will be an outstanding head coach for the Eagles," Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said in a statement. "He has a brilliant football mind. He motivates his team with his actions as well as his words. He will be a great leader for us and will bring a fresh energetic approach to our team."

The Eagles have scheduled an introductory news conference for Kelly at 10:30 a.m. Thursday.

Kelly had talked with numerous NFL teams after the college season, but initially decided to stay with the Ducks. Now, he's off to the NFL and Oregon is still expected to promote offensive coordinator Mark Helfrich to head coach. Here's a good profile on Helfrich.

Despite promoting from within, Kelly's departure is a blow for Oregon. The Ducks were 46-7 in his four years at Oregon.